WELCOME TO OUR !

St. John Vianney

INSIDE:

Welcome Letter 420 Inman Avenue Colonia, New Jersey 07067 Mission Statement About Us Rectory: 732-574-0150 Mass Schedule

http://www.sjvianney.com Sacramental Information Contact Information Parish Ministries

2013 Parish School

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Welcome Contents:

Welcome Letter from Our Pastor 3

Parish Mission Statement 4

Our Patron – Saint John Vianney 5

Parish History 5

Mass & Sacramental Schedule 6

Meet the Staff 7

Contact Information 8

Parish Membership 8

Parish Ministries 9

Liturgical Ministries 10

Adult Ministries 11

Youth Ministries 11

Social Ministries 12

Special Ministries 12

Parish School and Pre-School 13

Directions and Building Layout 14

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A MOST SINCERE WELCOME!

Welcome to the Parish Community of St. John Vianney! We are so glad that you are here.

In the sixth chapter of St. Mark’s Gospel, Jesus sends out his twelve Apostles two by two. I think there is a subtle message in what Jesus does as he teaches by example. He does not want them to travel on their journey alone. He realizes that they will need companionship, love and prayerful support from others to make their journey fruitful.

Two thousand years later, we are on our faith journey to a loving and caring God. But we too should not journey alone; we too need the companionship, love and prayerful support of others to make our journey fruitful and fulfilling. It is my hope that you can find this companionship, love and prayerful support here as a member of St. John Vianney Parish.

I invite you to learn about who we are, what we do, and the mission that we share as 21st century disciples of Jesus. We look forward to your sharing your faith, your time, your talents/gifts with us to enable us to better live out our mission as a parish community. We strongly believe every new member brings new and unique gifts to our parish community. Your presence enriches us and builds up this local church. Please prayerfully consider what gifts you and the members of your household might bring to our parish and how you might best share them with us as we journey together in faith.

I also invite you to take advantage of the many spiritual, educational and social opportunities the parish offers throughout the year to enhance and enrich your faith journey. I especially invite you to join us each week for Mass and to visit our website at www.sjvianney.com.

Please contact me or our parish office staff if we can be of service to you. See you at Mass on Sunday!

Peace and prayers, Father John Gloss Pastor

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St. John Vianney Parish

Mission Statement

In the spirit of St. John Vianney’s zeal and concern for people, we are a community proclaiming the Gospel in the tradition of the Roman Catholic Church. The community of St. John Vianney strives to utilize the gifts and talents of each parishioner to create a vibrant welcoming parish. Through our liturgies, ministries, and organizations, we encounter Christ and are empowered to bring Him to the world.

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Our - St. John Vianney

Jean-Baptiste-Marie Vianney, commonly known in English as St John Vianney, was a French parish priest who in the Catholic Church is venerated as a saint and as the patron saint of all priests. As a pastor of the church in Ars, a remote French hamlet, his reputation as a and director of souls made him known throughout the Christian world. He was a wonderworker loved by the crowds, but he retained a childlike simplicity, and he remains to this day the living image of the priest after the heart of Christ. He heard confessions of people from all over the world for sixteen hours each day. His life was filled with works of charity and love. It is recorded that even the staunchest of sinners were converted at his mere word. St. John Vianney is universally known as the "Cure of Ars" and Patron Saint of parish priests. We celebrate his feast day on August 4th.

St. John Vianney Parish History

In the spring of 1959, the Most Reverend George W. Ahr, Bishop of Trenton, established the parish of St. John Vianney from its parent parish St. Cecelia's in Iselin with Reverend Walter Radziwon, as Pastor. On June 21, 1959, the first Sunday Mass was celebrated at School # 20, Hoffman Boulevard and a short time later at Colonia Junior High School and School # 22, Lynn Oakes. The first ministries formed were the Ushers Association, Choir, the St. Vincent de Paul, Holy Name and Altar Societies. About 1200 grammar and high school students began receiving religious instructions in four public schools, with a teaching staff of 30. Nearly, 500 children attended St. Cecelia's Grammar School.

In 1960, a five acre tract was purchased on Inman Avenue, which once was a part of the original MacKenzie-Stillman farm around the turn of the century. The estate of Dr. Fredericks at 125 Dover Road was purchased for a Convent which was occupied by the Bernardine Sisters in the summer of 1962. A successful building fund drive took place during the years 1960 to 1962 leading to the ground breaking ceremonies on May 28, 1961 and the dedication of the Church, School and Rectory on August 19, 1962. Eight acres of property adjacent to the original five acres were purchased from Mr.Ritchie in 1966 by our pastor, Father Radziwon for future use and as an investment.

In July 1965, Bishop Ahr divided St. John Vianney Parish. All of the parishioners from Wood Avenue in Edison up to Tingley Lane, between New Dover Road and the Union County line became part of the new St. Helena Parish.

In January 1972, Reverend Edward Strano cleared and landscaped the far end of the property which became known as the Vianney Woods. The old Ritchie building was renovated and was used primarily by the Boy Scouts, Explorers and Cub Scouts. The Shalom House was also completed for use by the youth, basketball courts were erected and a soccer field. In addition, a convent was built on the parish property.

During the pastorate of Msgr. Francis Sergel a new parish center was built (which was renamed in his honor after his death) and purchased another building nearby which served as a Pre-School for many years. In August 1995, after the death of Msgr. Sergel, Fr. Edward O'Neill, previously an associate at St. John's, became our pastor. The latest addition to our parish, a four classroom school building opened in 2002, initially used for Kindergarten and now for the Pre-School. In 2004, our pastor was bestowed the honor of Msgr. Edward O'Neill.

In 2009, on our 50th anniversary, a major renovation was begun on our Church which improved the interior appearance and functionality and added a large gathering area with both upper and lower conference rooms. This renovated church was dedicated in August 2010 by Bishop Paul Bootkoski. 2019 6 St. John Vianney Church

Mass Schedule

Saturday Vigil 5:00 & 7:00 PM Sunday 7:00, 9:00, 10:45 AM, 12:15 PM Weekday Masses 7:00 & 8:45 AM - Monday Through Friday 8:00 AM Saturday Holy Days 7:00 PM Vigil (day prior to holy day) Weekday or Saturday Morning Mass as scheduled 7:00 PM Holy Day

Exposition of Blessed Sacrament Weekly, Saturday after 8:00 AM Mass until 11:00 AM

Sacramental Schedule Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) Saturday from 11:00 AM to 12 Noon and after the 7:00 PM Mass Anytime in the rectory – CALL FIRST!! Baptism Celebrated most Sundays of the year (1:30 PM). Requirements are: • Registration in the parish • Parents (and Godparents if possible) must attend the Baptism preparation classes • Arrangements must be made at least THREE MONTHS prior to date of baptism. • Catholic sponsors require verification of being a fully initiated and practicing Roman Catholic. Christian witnesses need verification of belonging to a church. and Confirmation of Children Religious instruction and sacramental scheduling for children is done though the Parish School and Catechetical Religious Education programs. Anointing of the Sick Anyone who is ill or homebound and would like to receive the Anointing of the Sick or Communion is asked to call the rectory. The Diocese assigns chaplains to each of the hospitals to serve Catholics in the hospitals. Funerals The Funeral Mass and services are arranged and coordinated through the Funeral Home. Matrimony Couples planning marriage must notify the parish at least ONE YEAR in advance to finalize a date and obtain the necessary information. Pre-Cana classes, God’s Plan for a Joy filled Marriage and the F.O.C.C.U.S Program are required. At least one party must be a registered member of this parish. Adult Sacraments The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is offered annually for those adults who would like to become Catholic, or who are baptized Catholic but have not received First Communion and Confirmation. Adult Confirmation is offered annually for those adults (over the age of 18) who are baptized Catholic, have received First Communion and would like to receive Confirmation.

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Meet the Staff

Rev. John Gloss Pastor Rev. Monsignor Edward M. O'Neill Pastor Emeritus Rev. Joseph Kubiak, OFM Cap Parochial Vicar Rev. Bede Kim Parochial Vicar Joseph Ragucci Deacon Deacon Thomas Michnewicz Deacon Deacon Thomas Bresnan Deacon Deacon Vincent Brigande Deacon Mary Cowan Parish Catechetical Leader Sr. Eileen Jude, SSJ SJV School Principal John O'Halloran SJV School Assistant Principal Jamie Frame Director of Sacred Music Vacant Youth Minister Linda Dunbar Administrative Assistant Paula Roibal Book Keeper Parish/School Stephanie Noto Parish Secretary

Rev. John Rev. Joseph Rev. Bede Msgr. Edward Gloss Kubiak Kim O’Neill

Deacon Joe Deacon Tom Deacon Tom Deacon Vinnie Ragucci Michnewicz Bresnan Brigande

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Contact Information St. John Vianney Church, 420 Inman Avenue, Colonia, NJ 07067

Parish Office (Rectory) 732-574-0150 (Monday thru Friday 9:00am-4:00pm) 732-574-0050 FAX (Special Summer Hours as Posted) Convent 732-388-8740 SJV School 732-388-1662 SJV Pre-School 732-388-1662 Religious Education (Catechetical Office) 732-388-1424 Youth Ministry 732-381-0008 Deacon Joseph Ragucci 732-548-3880 Deacon Thomas Michnewicz 732-574-1651 Deacon Thomas Bresnan 732-827-2821 Director of Sacred Music - Jamie Frame 908-331-0471

Parish Website: http://parish.sjvianney.com Email: [email protected] School Website: http://school.sjvianney.com

Parish Membership

All baptized Catholics who live within our boundaries are welcome in the parish and are requested to register at the rectory. If a parishioner is not registered and actively participating in our parish, it is difficult for us to issue testimonial letters, sponsor certificates, etc. When you move or change your address, please notify the rectory. Anyone 18 years of age or older not in school, must be registered separate of their family.

Active Participating Parishioner

Attendance at weekend Mass and contributions to our parish are necessary to be considered as an “active participating” member of our parish. This is determined by your use of weekly envelopes. See our website for using the “online-giving” option to use bank or credit card transfers for your parish contributions.

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Parish Ministry Opportunities

There are many opportunities available at St. John Vianney Parish to use your time, talent, and gifts to live out your call to discipleship. We invite you to consider these ministry opportunities.

They are organized into the following categories:

• Liturgical Ministries - associated with our parish liturgical life • Adult Ministries – associated with serving the adults of our parish • Youth Ministries - associated with our parish youth • Social Ministries - associated with serving a variety of needs within our community and the world • Special Interest Ministries - associated with specific parish groups

Parish Pastoral Council The parish pastoral council is a consultative group, appointed by the pastor, that is charged to reflect on the direction of the parish including current opportunities and difficulties facing the parish and propose practical solutions to the pastor.

Parish Finance Committee The parish finance committee is a consultative group, appointed by the pastor, which is charged to assist the pastor in financial matters.

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Liturgical Ministries

Extra Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (Eucharistic Ministers) Special ministers share the with other worshipers in the assembly and with those who are confined to their homes, hospitals or institutions. Ministers are approved by pastor. Formal training is provided.

Lectors (Readers) A liturgical ministry that proclaims the Word of God to the Assembly of worshipers. It requires continued preparation and desire to understand the scriptures. Formal training and enrichment is provided.

Altar Servers An opportunity for Catholic boys and girls in Grades 5 to High School, to participate in a special way in Liturgical Celebrations. A training program is provided in the fall and is ongoing.

Ushers A ministry of hospitality to those attending services at SJV Church. Participation will coincide with individual's choice of Mass. Volunteers are welcomed and needed.

Music Ministry The music ministry, under the direction of the Director of Sacred Music, provides music for all our liturgical celebrations including weekday and Sunday Mass, weddings, funerals, and special occasions. Additional voices are always needed and welcomed. Choirs: Adult Choir, Children’s Choir, Folk Group

Liturgy Committee A liturgy committee appointed by the pastor provides guidance and planning for the various liturgical rites of the parish.

Ministry to the Sick and Homebound Special ministers will bring Holy Communion to those who are confined to their homes, hospitals, or other institutions. Call the Rectory for more information.

Lazarus Ministry Members of the Lazarus ministry contact and assist families with planning the funeral liturgy. This companionship, support and care are so important at this difficult time for families. They also coordinate a yearly memorial Mass and luncheon in November.

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Adult Ministries

RCIA / Adult Confirmation The Rite of Initiation of Adults is a process through which adults are fully initiated into the Catholic Church. It is preparation for one or more of the Sacraments and include catechetical instruction and liturgical rites. It provides spiritual growth for the person as well as the faith community.

Bible Study / Adult Faith Education Various Programs provided throughout the year for the spiritual and personal development of our parish membership. Topic suggestions and leadership roles welcome. Programs announced in parish bulletin.

Pre-Cana Team Married parish couples who provide, in an informal session, the required marriage preparation sessions for engaged couples. Topics are presented by Team Couples. Two sessions during the year.

FOCCUS Marriage Prep Required pre-marital inventory for engaged couples called FOCCUS is provided during the marriage preparation phase.

Youth Ministries

Catechetical Instruction for Children (CCD) Religious instructions for elementary students who do not attend Catholic School including preparation for First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Teachers and aides always needed. Classes are held Monday & Thursday evenings in the SJV School Classrooms.

Youth Ministry The youth ministry meets on a regular basis for spiritual, social, and service events to foster community and to provide opportunities for youth to fully participate in the life of the Church. It involves high school age and Young Adult Advisors who form a dynamic part of our parish. Meets Sunday evenings in the Youth Trailer

Home School Association HSA is composed of all parents and guardians of students in SJV School. One of its objectives is to assist the administration in attaining its goals through active parental involvement. Class parents provide help in communication with parents. Volunteer aides are needed and welcome.

School Advisory Council Provides advice and support to the pastor and the school principal on issues related to the SJV school and pre-school.

SJV Athletics and Cheerleading A variety of sports and cheerleading opportunities are available to the school and parish children through the SJV Lancers athletic teams including basketball, cheerleading, track and soccer.

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Social Ministries

Social Justice A response to the social teachings of the Church which provides opportunities to reach out to those in need and to work for peace and justice. Meets monthly in the Church.

Saint Isidore’s Garden Grows fresh produce to supply the local food pantries. Help is needed to plant, water and harvest the plants.

Society of St. Vincent De Paul Exists to bear witness to our love of Christ by serving our parish community through our prayers, spiritual and corporal works of mercy. We provide assistance to the needy.

Pro-Life Committee Provides needed assistance to expectant and new unwed mothers. It also creates awareness and supports legislative action regarding pro-life issues. Fund-raising to support our efforts as well as those of existing agencies.

Special Interest Ministries

Altar Rosary Society Carries on the tradition of Rosary Devotion in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Spiritual and social events, care for the altar linens, active service to members in times of personal sadness, projects for the needy and fund raising fill the annual calendar.

Secular Franciscan Order Catholic lay men and women, married and single, who strive to grow in a deep personal relationship with Jesus, in the spirit of Saint and Saint Clair.

Senior Citizen Club An opportunity for seniors to gather socially, make new friends, and enjoy the company of peers. Meetings offer entertaining and educational programs. Trips are provided and participation in many volunteer programs. Eligibility for membership - 60 years of age and a SJV parishioner or local resident.

Knights of Columbus #6571 Dedicated to developing the individual spiritual life of its members and to assist the church in its charitable works. Membership open to any practicing Catholic male.

Ladies Auxiliary K of C Council #6571 Committed to works of charity and the support of seminarians. Female counterpart of the K of C.

Boy Scouts of America - Troop/Pack 523 Organized to teach the principles of citizenship, as well as duty to God and to others through service projects for the community. Eligibility: Cub Scouts: boys 6-10½; Boy Scouts: 10½ to 18 years of age.

Annual Parish Fair Fun and community for all! Volunteers and helpers needed. Held the week after July 4th. Information through the Sunday bulletin.

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SJV School and PreSchool

A Word of Welcome We welcome you to Saint John Vianney Parish and invite you to visit our Catholic School. For over fifty years, Saint John Vianney School has been living the mission of the Church by providing the families of the parish and local community with a faith-filled, quality education for their children. From our beginning, the school has provided an environment where children learn to understand their faith and their responsibilities by preparing them to become active, moral adults living Christ's message and sharing the Gospel values. By building up the Body of Christ, our educators are empowered to form and sustain a learning community that fosters excellence. High academic standards, strong motivation, effective discipline, and an atmosphere of caring combine to ensure each child's success academically, spiritually, physically, emotionally, and socially. Our parents, our children's first teachers, the administration, faculty, and staff work together to form a living community of shared values dedicated to fulfilling the needs of each child wholly and individually. Our tradition and mission confidently continue today. We know that God's Loving Light Shines Through Us and Our Actions moving each of us within the community to strive for excellence in all that we do. We celebrate the presence of our loving God in each of us as He calls us to live, learn, love, and serve. To find out more about our vibrant Catholic School visit our website at http://school.sjvianney.com or call for a personal tour.

Sr. Eileen Jude, SSJ Mr. John O’Halloran Principal Assistant Principal

School Mission Statement God fills us with His Love, Spirit, Light, and Energy so that we may live the mission of our school, which is to bring God's loving light to the world as disciples of Jesus Christ. We celebrate the presence of our loving God in us as He calls each of us to love and serve each other.

School Office: (732) 388-1662 Website: http://school.sjvianney.com Email: [email protected]

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Directions to Parish Complex

North on Garden State Parkway: Exit 131. Go right at end of ramp onto Rt. 27 South. Right at first traffic light (Wood Ave). Wood Ave to Inman Ave (3 traffic lights) make a right on Inman Ave (go approx. 1 mile) to parking lot of St. John Vianney on left.

North, on NJ. Turnpike: Exit 11. Take Garden State Parkway North to Exit 131 - follow directions as given above.

Driving North from Rts. 1 & 9 (Rt.35): Rt. 1 & 9 merge with Rt. 35. Rt. 35 becomes St. Georges Ave. Travel North to Inman Ave. Left at W. Inman Ave. Travel approximately 2 miles. Make right into SJV parking lot.

From Rt. 287: Exit at Metuchen, left at end of ramp onto New Durham Rd. Left onto Rt. 27 North (at "T" end of road). Left at Wood Ave. Right onto Inman Ave, left into SJV Parking lot.

The Parish Office and Rectory is the first building along Inman Avenue. The School and Church are across the parking lot. The Msgr. Sergel Parish Center is at the far left, as is the Convent, the Youth Ministry trailers, and the Pre-School building.

Map of Parish Complex

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